Cost of Politics Reports

India’s geographical expanse, socio-cultural diversity and multi-level federal representative governance structures makes its electoral landscape extremely vibrant and unique. But in recent decades the world’s largest democracy has attracted sustained scholarly attention as a result of the increasingly huge costs of not just holding elections, but contesting in them. A staggering 1.35 lakh crore or USD 16 billion was estimated to have been spent by political parties and candidates, with significant variations across regions, states and between parties and candidates, in the course of the three-month mega elections process in 2024. But the costs of politics are not just confined to official campaign periods. They begin immediately after a candidate decides to contest for political office, and extend into post-election periods. This study seeks to offer a deeper understanding of the dynamics behind rising political expenditure, the ways in which they are shaped by, and is shaping, the changing nature of election campaigns, and the implications this has for India’s democracy.

Entering and contesting politics in Mexico is a great challenge. Those brave enough to participate face various costs, both visible and invisible, including financial, personal, reputational and even threats to their physical security. Although public funding for political parties in the country is adequate and meets international standards, not all political actors have equal access to these resources.

Money is a defining feature of the political landscape in Pakistan. There is an implicit understanding amongst politicians and the public alike that a life in politics is only possible for those who have considerable means, and the ability to generate funds as and when needed. This study aims to analyse the financial burdens faced by political candidates, ranging from new entrants to the established political leaders.

The relationship between money and politics has been a pivotal issue in the Maldives, particularly since the adoption of a multiparty-political system in 2008. With elections serving as the cornerstone of representative democracy, the financial demands placed on candidates and political parties have grown exponentially, shaping the nature of political competition and governance and influencing electoral strategies, voter engagement, and, ultimately, political outcomes.

In Bangladeshi politics, the interplay between money and power is not a new phenomenon. However, the situation has worsened in recent years - particularly during the past four AL-led governments from 2009 to 2024 - where the influence of financial resources in politics has increased dramatically. This situation calls for urgent attention, as the intersection of money and political power threatens the very fabric of democracy in the country.

Focused on the 2024 legislative elections, this study aims to understand what it costs to seek and maintain elective office, the drivers of those costs, and the impacts they have on Indonesian democracy. A specific focus on marginalised groups such as women and youth is driven by existing research that suggests the rising cost of politics in Indonesia has not only entrenched and enhanced this status quo, but also effectively lowered the chance of less affluent or connected candidates to win parliamentary seats.